If parents are wondering when they should introduce their kids to
foreign languages, the answer is right now, according to
experts. In fact, the earlier they are exposed, the more easily a
second (or third) language will be to absorb. There are a number
of software products available that will help the process along. Most
contain fun games that help boost vocabulary.

Kids under 12

There are a
few software titles available that help introduce kids to foreign
languages, and help supplement their foreign language school
courses. None of these focus on verb conjugation or fine-tuning
language skills--that comes later-- but for informal exposure to
new languages, these programs can be helpful. Refer to the chart
below for comparisons and more information.

For the very
young, JumpStart Languages is moderately fun and
age-appropriate. Done in the familiar and cutesy manner that is
typical of JumpStart titles, this
program features four language pavilions, each home to a few games
and activities. Children play a board game, look for matching
pairs, listen to stories, and more. Each pavilion features the
same types of activities, but is hosted by different guides. [Buy JumpStart Languages
at Amazon.com]

Jumpstart
Spanish is a decent product in that it provides a colorful
backdrop for introducing the Spanish language. This title is best
for preschoolers and Kindergarteners. [Buy Jumpstart Spanish]

KidSpeak
6-in-1 Language Learning is a strong title that uses a full
immersion approach to learning new languages. The
learning is embedded into games, and no multimedia flashcards are
used. Consider this point when purchasing a foreign language
software for your child. Your own child may prefer a more
straightforward learning environment. However, the approach used
in this title can be very effective because children learn the
language almost effortlessly. Games
include tic tac toe, jigsaw puzzles, dominoes, connect-the-dots,
and bingo. Songs are incorporated into the program and include
Happy Birthday and The Alphabet Song. Vocabulary learned includes
days and months, greetings, fruits, school items, body parts,
numbers, clothing, and more. A total of 6 languages are
covered in separate sections -- Spanish, French, German, Italian,
Japanese, and Hebrew. [See
our full review. Buy KidSpeak
6-in-1 at Amazon.com]

In contrast, Instant
Immersion Language Starter for Kids relies on rote learning to
accomplish its goals. Children are presented multimedia
flashcards. They learn vocabulary by cycling through images and
listening to their pronunciation, then turn to games to reinforce
their learning. Speaking practice is available--kids can record
their own voices into a computer microphone (not included in the
package) and hear their voiceovers played back in a cinema-like
environment. The graphics are somewhat dated, and the program is
very straightforward. [See our full review.
Buy Instant
Immersion Language Starter For... at Amazon.com]

Though
designed for older children and adults, the beginner CD-ROMs
(there are 4 in all--1 for each featured language) in Instant
Immersion Language Lab are quite engaging for kids
approximately 8-9 years and up. These help kids boost their
vocabulary skills through lessons and very enjoyable games. There
is a point system awarded for users' efforts, which can be very
motivating for some children. The graphics are bright and fun, and
speaking practice is possible through a record/playback feature. [Buy Instant Immersion Language Lab (8 CD-ROM)
at Amazon.com for
approximately $29.99 US]

JumpStart
Languages

KidSpeak
6-in-1 Language Learning

Instant
Immersion Language Starter for Kids

Instant
Immersion Language Lab - Beginner CDs

Languages

French,
Spanish, Japanese, English

French,
Spanish, Japanese, German, Italian, Hebrew

French,
Spanish German, Italian

French,
Spanish German, Italian

For Ages

3-5

6-10

5-10

9-up

Method

Simple
games that reinforce vocabulary

Full immersion
approach; kids play games and absorb the language as they
do.

Multimedia
flashcards, plus games to reinforce the lessons.

Multimedia
flashcards, plus games to reinforce the lessons.

Pros

Playful,
supportive environment, snazzy graphics

Large
variety of activities, full immersion approach is effective

Straightforward
learning, speaking practice

Fun,
bright graphics; appealing games with a point system,
speaking practice

Cons

Too
few activities

Graphics
are somewhat dated; some kids will find the full
immersion approach difficult